4Department of General Surgery, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, IR Iran

Abstract

Background
Gastrointestinal Injuries (GI) during gynecological operation are uncommon but proper management of these injuries is very important.

Objectives
The aim of this study was to review the causes and management of gastrointestinal injuries during gynecological and obstetrical operations.

Patients and Methods
In this descriptive retrospective study, 25 patients with gastrointestinal injuries during gynecological and obstetrical operation at Shabihkhani Maternity Hospital in Kashan city were reviewed. Demographic data such as age, gravid, parity, type of surgery or procedure, history of laparotomy, the surgical operation, injury site, time of diagnosis and method of treatment were extracted from medical records.

Results
The mean age of women was 33.2 ± 7.57 years. 44% of the patients had a history of abdominal scar. 32% of all GI injuries occurred during total abdominal hysterectomy (TAH). The small bowel was injured in 36% of cases. 52% of injuries were diagnosed during the operation and the mean time of injury diagnosis was 2.8 ± 0.9 days.

Conclusions
All of the gynecologic surgeons must be aware of gastrointestinal injuries and should anticipate injury to these organs especially in high-risk patients for decreasing patient morbidity.